Author Archives: Topher

Two years ago, GM posted some advice how to celebrate St. Pat’s in the early days of the pandemic. Last year, his advice eased closer to his normal advice. And this year, GM can revert back fully to it. So without further ado, here is GM’s annual St. Pat’s article giving you a guide to enjoy the day around Georgetown:

As you may know, during the early 20th century, parts of Georgetown were heavily Irish. The center of it was on the west side, close to the Catholic landmarks of GU, Trinity and Visitation.

Good morning Georgetown, here’s the latest:

• The huge yellow mansion on 30th St. was sold for $9 million.
• Takeout Tuesday this week is the new Sticx and Officina.

ANC Commissioner Jenny Mitchell announced over the weekend that she will not seek reelection to her seat this fall. She wrote:

I would also like to let you know that due to work and family commitments I have made the decision to not run again for the ANC.  It has been a great honor and privilege to serve on the ANC.  We live in a wonderful community with many dedicated volunteers and professionals.   I encourage everyone to consider running for ANC 2E02 or 2E03.  If you need additional information about the ANC please contact me. 

Good morning Georgetown, here’s the latest:

• The Washington Post went deep into the supposed Yellow Tavern and found even more evidence than GM did that it is all a lie.
• Speaking of historical taverns living on in name only, here is a review of the new Fountain Inn.

Last month, WBJ reported that the Nike Store may be on the way out. And GM is hearing rumors that the Amazon Books store next door is also on the way out. These closures, if they come to pass, would add to several other large spaces that have also recently become vacant.

Nike took over the space at 30th and M in 2012. Previously the space was used for many years by Barnes and Nobles (offering one of the more popular third places in the neighborhood). Prior to the Barnes and Nobles, the building hosted the Cerberus 1-2-3 movie theater since 1970. Its unusual size and large windows owe to the fact it was originally built as a car dealership.

From the moment Nike moved in it felt like perhaps they bit off more than they could chew. The three vast floors felt empty, particularly to patrons who once roamed the Barnes and Noble’s bookshelves. And the fact that it appears that Nike is bowing out with years left on the lease would suggest they agree with that assessment.

Good morning Georgetown, here’s the latest:

• Pray for the magnolias as this cold snap moves in.
• If you live near Montrose Park, you’re probably familiar with the decrepit home on Avon that has appeared vacant for decades (despite still being lived in). It just sold.

A rare 18th century home has come up for sale on 33rd St. Listed just under $4 million, 1524 33rd St. is being sold for the first time in over 50 years. And it comes with the history of being a tavern that Thomas Jefferson once stayed at. (But, as GM will get into below, there is some reason to doubt that history…)

The home was supposedly built in 1788 and it occupies a shockingly large plot: